As Spooky Season descends upon us we are out checking out downtown Wausau for WHAT! We decided to explore a downtown staple and known to be haunted- 324 Scott Street!
This building was erected in 1901 in a commercial style. Although the facade has been changed, you can still see the arched windows in the front. It was designed by Philip Dean and built by Robert Girdwood.
It was built for the local newspaper, The Wausau Pilot, owned by Eugene Thayer. And it was also home of JC Penney from about 1920-mid 50s. And of course Shepherd & Schaller from about 1960 until today.
But several other businesses have been listed there over the years..
1910:
H Manecke and Sons – Jewelers
The James Music Company
William Baer Wald – Grocery
Gooding Mylrea Lumber
Northee Lumber
1916:
Bernard Laab – Music Merchandise
Daniel Hart – Real Estate
Curtis Dell- Insurance
Curtis Marahall Land Company
Wilke Brothers – Jewelers
1920
JC Penney – RA Tinker Manager
And word is the basement was used to hide liquor during Prohibition. And a tunnel was made to connect it to the Wausau Club to enable moving the hootch on the down low
Today it is reported that a few ghosts hang out in the building – perhaps to protect the booze? Reports of footsteps, cold spots, and doors closing by themselves is common.
